Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development, MSEd
The M.S.Ed. in Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development (ISHD) program examines the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects of human development within the context of culture and social policy. The ISHD master’s program offers students the opportunity to create an individualized program of study that leads to an enriched understanding of the diverse perspectives of human development across the lifespan in one of the following career interests: traditional academic research, youth programming and services, urban and ethnic studies, adult development and learning, international programming (e.g., work with NGOs), foundation administration, and program development. The program is designed for pre-professional training and to prepare students to advance within their careers by gaining a better understanding of human development issues. The M.S.Ed. in ISHD also gives students a solid foundation for applying to doctoral programs in human development and related fields.
For more information: https://www.gse.upenn.edu/aphd/ishd/msed
Curriculum
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Introductory (Required) | ||
| EDUC 5560 | Human Development | 1 |
| Current Research, Theory, Application (Required) | ||
| EDUC 8560 | ISHD Proseminar | 1 |
| Developmental Foundations 1 | ||
| Select at least 3 of the following: | 3 | |
| Education and International Development | ||
| Developmental Theories: Applications with Young Adults | ||
| Adolescent Development | ||
| Personality & Social Development | ||
| Cognitive Development | ||
| Mindfulness for Emerging Adults | ||
| Developmental Theories & Applications with Children | ||
| Peer Relationships in Childhood and Adolescence | ||
| Cognitive Processes (EDUC 5568 pre-req) | ||
| Poverty and Child Development | ||
| Social, Cultural & Policy Foundations | ||
| Select one of the following: | 1 | |
| Psychology of the African-American | ||
| Stereotype Threat, Impostor Phenomenon, and African Americans | ||
| Psychoeducational Interactions with Black Males | ||
| Advanced Psychology of Women | ||
| Cultural Perspectives on Human Development | ||
| Sociocultural Foundations in Counseling | ||
| Risk, Resilience, and Prevention Science | ||
| Quantitative Methodology | ||
| Select one of the following: | 1 | |
| Introductory Statistics for Educational Research | ||
| Regression and Analysis of Variance | ||
Another statistics course can be substituted with permission | ||
| Qualitative Methodology | ||
| Select one of the following: | 1 | |
| Qualitative Studies of Developmental Interventions | ||
| Qualitative Research: Concepts, Methods and Design | ||
| Mixed Methods Research: Counseling & Development | ||
| Electives | ||
| Select 2 graduate level elective courses 2 | 2 | |
| Total Course Units | 10 | |
Applied Development and Counseling Skills Concentration:
ISHD MSEd students may opt for a concentration in Applied Development and Counseling Skills.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration Requirements | ||
| EDUC 5584 | Basic Counseling Skills | 1 |
| Concentration Electives | ||
| Select two of the following: | 2 | |
| Counseling for School to Career Transitions | ||
| Sociocultural Foundations in Counseling | ||
| Career Counseling and Development | ||
| Mindfulness for Emerging Adults | ||
| Developmental Theories & Applications with Children | ||
| Developmental Theories: Applications with Young Adults | ||
| Total Course Units | 3 | |
Required Milestones
Comprehensive Examination (or Portfolio or Thesis)
Master’s degree candidates must demonstrate thorough knowledge of the field of specialization by passing a comprehensive examination in their area of study. The examination/portfolio/thesis serves an educational and evaluative purpose through which students are expected to review and integrate what they have learned in their coursework and fieldwork. Comprehensive formats vary.
- 1
Counseling Area of Concentration students are only required to take two of these courses.
- 2
Counseling Area of Concentration students select two electives from the approved concentration course list.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.